TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - National football observer Sapto Haryo Rajasa believes the Indonesia U-23 National Team will face a challenging match against Vietnam in the final of the 2025 AFF U-23 Cup.
The match is scheduled to take place at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at 08:00 PM WIB (Western Indonesia Time).
Sapto points out that the midfield battle will play a decisive role in shaping the outcome. He emphasized that Indonesia's coach, Gerald Vanenburg, must find a way to neutralize Vietnam's superior ball possession
"We have transition moments that can be maximized, in addition to build-ups and set pieces," he told Tempo.
Indonesia may also find it difficult to control the game. The young Garuda squad will be missing two key midfielders, Toni Firmansyah and Arkhan Fikri. Despite this setback, Sapto remains confident that Gerald has the tactical awareness to respond effectively
"I believe in him because his player selections are rarely off the mark," he added.
Indonesia and Vietnam are set to face off in the final at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Senayan, Central Jakarta. Sapto remains optimistic about Indonesia’s chances, noting that under Vanenburg's leadership, the team has grown more diverse and cohesive in its playstyle.
"It's clear from how Indonesia attacks from various directions," he said.
With the current squad depth, Sapto sees improvements in Indonesia’s ability to transition between defense and attack.
"The team has developed solid midfield consolidation. This is impressive, especially considering the absence of international friendlies," he explained. Sapto also praised Gerald Vanenburg's timely decisions in making substitutions. "He deserves extra credit for consistently making the right calls."
Gerald, 61, has shown a willingness to take calculated risks to influence the game. This was evident during the semi-final match against Thailand at Gelora Bung Karno on Friday, July 25, 2025. Indonesia was trailing 1-0 after Yotsakorn Burapha scored in the 60th minute.
With 15 minutes remaining, Gerald made bold changes by bringing in defenders Brandon Scheunemann, Alfharezzi Buffon, and Muhammad Ferrari to replace Rahmat Arjuna Reski, Dominikus Dion, and Maulana Syarif. According to Sapto, this move to introduce taller players was risky but well thought out.
"It was a calculated decision," he said. The gamble paid off when Jens Raven equalized in the 84th minute, and Indonesia went on to win the penalty shootout 7-6.
Sapto also commented on Thailand’s defensive strategy, which was paired with quick counter-attacks. The Thai players showed strong discipline in holding their defensive lines, making it hard for Indonesia to break through.
"This strategy is also used by teams like the Philippines and Malaysia. It’s a different story when facing Brunei Darussalam, whose defense is far more open. That’s why we often struggle to score," he concluded.
Editor's Choice: Here Are the Vietnam U-23 Players That Indonesia Should Watch Out For in the AFF U-23 Cup Final
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